Wind Creek Hospitality has recently announced its acquisition of the Birmingham Racecourse and Casino in Alabama. This move comes after live greyhound racing ceased at the Birmingham Racecourse in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Poarch Band of Creek Indians’ Wind Creek Hospitality, a rapidly growing federally recognized tribe, is purchasing the Birmingham Racecourse and Casino from the McGregor family, who have owned and operated the venue since 1992. The sale is expected to be finalized in early 2025, although the exact sale price has not been disclosed.
The Birmingham Racecourse Casino currently features around 300 slot-like gaming terminals and offers simulcast parimutuel wagering on horses and greyhounds, as well as historical horse racing (HHR) machines. Wind Creek Hospitality President and CEO Jay Dorris expressed excitement about welcoming the Birmingham Racecourse into the Wind Creek family, highlighting the shared goals of providing entertainment, attracting tourism, and promoting economic growth in Alabama.
Wind Creek Hospitality already operates three tribal casinos in Alabama, but the acquisition of the Birmingham Racecourse expands its presence in the state. While the Poarch Band of Creek Indians do not have historical ties to the Birmingham area, they plan to operate the casino as a parimutuel wagering facility rather than sovereign land. The casino’s focus on HHR games and slot-like terminals influenced Wind Creek’s interest in the acquisition.
Looking ahead, it remains uncertain whether Wind Creek will rebrand the Birmingham facility to Wind Creek Birmingham or invest in additional resort amenities. The company’s continued investments in the U.S. gaming industry, including the upcoming opening of Wind Creek Chicago Southland in Illinois, demonstrate its commitment to growth and expansion.
In light of the recent legal challenges faced by other gaming venues in Alabama, such as Victoryland, the acquisition of the Birmingham Racecourse represents a strategic move for Wind Creek Hospitality. The complex regulatory environment in the state has prompted the McGregor family to refocus their efforts on Victoryland and advocate for unified gaming legislation in Alabama.
Overall, Wind Creek Hospitality’s acquisition of the Birmingham Racecourse and Casino marks a significant development in the state’s gaming industry. As the company integrates the venue into its portfolio, it aims to continue providing high-quality entertainment experiences while contributing to the local economy and community.